Mika Salo predicts a team change for Verstappen.

      Max Verstappen is one of those drivers who does not hide his negative attitude towards the 2026 regulations, and the comments from the four-time world champion are filled with open frustration, as he has not yet been able to compete for high results this season. He has not risen above 6th place so far – that was in Australia, after which in China Max retired from the race due to technical problems, and in Suzuka he earned only four points, finishing eighth.

      Of course, there is nothing to be happy about, especially since he understands that the problem is not with him, but with the RB22 car. Naturally, Red Bull Racing is doing everything possible to change the situation, but what will come of it and how much time it will take is still unclear.

      Against this backdrop, there are talks that Max may decide to end the stage of his career dedicated to Formula 1. Mika Salo, who competed in the World Championship from 1994 to 2002, believes that if this really happens, F1 will lose a lot. Moreover, Verstappen is showing increasing interest in GT category racing and is preparing to compete in the "24 Hours of Nürburgring" in May.

      "This would be a truly serious loss," Salo is quoted by the Finnish newspaper Ilta-Sanomat. "I like his driving style. On the track, he acts aggressively and generally demonstrates incredible skill. Overall, F1 will lose a lot, but some other series may gain a wonderful addition. But if a driver stops enjoying this sport, then they should do something else. I don’t think Formula 1 should change because of Max, because the sport as a whole is much bigger and more important than any individual driver. Formula 1 must evolve and move forward, as there have been many champions in the past who decided to end their careers.

      In any case, I don’t think there will be any significant changes during the season, no matter how events unfold. For safety reasons, something can be adjusted to avoid differences in the speeds of cars chasing each other, as it can currently reach 70-80 km/h.

      But, in my opinion, there are two most important factors: the behavior of the new cars on the track and the not very effective RB22. I don’t think the prospect of racing just to finish in the end of the top ten inspires the four-time world champion much."

      Mika Salo is referring to Max's comments that his interest in this championship could return to its previous level if the nature of the races and the behavior of the new generation cars on the track improve. At the same time, the former driver agrees with those experts who believe that Mercedes may eventually part ways with George Russell, as it is no coincidence that the British driver was offered a contract for only one year, but he managed to insist on his own, and the parties agreed on a longer collaboration.

      When the Finn was asked which turn in Max's career he sees as more likely, a team change or leaving Formula 1, Mika replied: "A team change. Red Bull is definitely not very competitive this season, and key staff members continue to leave this team. But if Max does decide to leave F1, it would be interesting to see him in the American IndyCar series."